Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs

Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs combine melted cheese over juicy, flavorful meatballs and there’s hardly any prep required! This dish is perfect for game day, family dinners, or cozy nights in. With its rich flavors and minimal cooking effort, it stands out as a comforting meal that everyone will love. You can serve these meatballs over rice or noodles, making them versatile for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss ingredients into the crock pot and let it do the work.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of onion and savory broth creates a delicious sauce that enhances the meatballs.
• Cheesy Goodness: Topped with melted gruyere cheese, every bite is creamy and satisfying.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a snack or served over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings; it’s easy to make a large batch!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delightful dish, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 6-quart crock pot
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Small bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• 6-quart crock pot: Ideal for slow-cooking large batches of meatballs without constant monitoring.
• Medium mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients efficiently before adding them to the crock pot.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 2 medium yellow onions (sliced)
• 26 ounces frozen meatballs

For the Sauce

• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 ounce Package brown gravy mix
• 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon white apple vinegar

For Thickening

• ¼ cup water
• 2 tablespoons corn starch

For Topping

• 1½ cups gruyere cheese (grated)

How to Make Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Onions and Meatballs

Place the sliced onions in the bottom of a 6-quart crock pot. Then, pour frozen meatballs over the top.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a medium bowl, add beef broth, gravy mix, garlic, black pepper, dried thyme, and white apple vinegar. Whisk until well combined. Pour this mixture over the meatballs.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on high for 2½-3½ hours or low for 5-6 hours.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch and water together. Pour over the meatballs and mix until well combined. Top with gruyere cheese and cook for an additional ten minutes or until the cheese is melted.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs over rice or mashed potatoes, and enjoy!

How to Serve Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs

Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these meatballs are sure to please everyone.

Over Rice

• Serve the meatballs over fluffy white or brown rice for a filling meal that absorbs all the delicious sauce.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Pair with creamy mashed potatoes to create a comforting dish that complements the flavors of the meatballs perfectly.

In a Sub Sandwich

• Place meatballs in a toasted sub roll, top with melted cheese, and enjoy a hearty sandwich ideal for lunch or dinner.

As an Appetizer

• Serve meatballs on toothpicks as bite-sized appetizers at parties. They are easy to grab and full of flavor.

Topped on Pasta

• Add cooked pasta for an Italian twist. The sauce from the meatballs will coat the pasta beautifully, creating a satisfying meal.

How to Perfect Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs

To ensure your Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality ingredients: Opt for good-quality frozen meatballs and low-sodium beef broth for better flavor.
• Slice onions evenly: Make sure your onion slices are uniform to ensure they cook evenly and caramelize nicely.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving; feel free to add more garlic or herbs according to your preference.
• Monitor cooking time: Cooking times can vary by crock pot model. Check for doneness to avoid overcooking the meatballs.
• Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking for better flavor melding and easier serving.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs

Complement your Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs with these delicious side dishes that enhance the overall meal experience.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds color and nutrition, balancing out the richness of the meatballs.
2. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce from the meatballs while adding a crunchy texture.
3. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast, making it an excellent choice alongside this dish.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and flavor while complementing the heartiness of the meatballs.
5. Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious quinoa salad can provide a healthy alternative, adding protein and fiber to your meal.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, which pairs nicely with the savory flavors of the meatball dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs can be simple, but a few common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the onion layer: Layering sliced onions at the bottom is crucial for flavor. They release sweetness and enhance the meatballs’ taste. Always start with onions in your crock pot.
• Using regular broth: Low-sodium beef broth helps control saltiness in your dish. Opt for low-sodium options to prevent your meatballs from being too salty.
• Not whisking the sauce: Failing to properly mix the broth, gravy mix, and seasonings can lead to uneven flavor. Always whisk these ingredients together until fully combined before pouring over the meatballs.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking times can vary based on your crock pot’s settings. Use a timer and check for doneness; the meatballs should be heated through and tender.
• Neglecting cheese placement: Adding cheese too early can lead to burnt or overly dry cheese. Wait until the last ten minutes of cooking to add gruyere cheese for optimal meltiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the meatballs to cool before sealing to avoid condensation buildup.

Freezing Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs

• Freeze meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Portion them into meal-sized servings for easy thawing later.

Reheating Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs in a baking dish covered with foil and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place meatballs in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of broth if needed, and stir until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs:

Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?

Yes, feel free to use homemade meatballs! Just ensure they are cooked beforehand for the best results.

How do I make this recipe healthier?

You can reduce fat by using lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef meatballs and using less cheese if desired.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can incorporate bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What is the best way to serve Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with rice, mashed potatoes, or even on sub rolls as a tasty sandwich option!

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs are not only delicious but also versatile! This recipe allows for easy customization; you can adjust spices or even add vegetables as you prefer. Whether served as an appetizer or main course over rice or noodles, these meatballs will surely please everyone at your table. Give it a try!

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Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs are the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, making them an ideal dish for any occasion. This flavorful recipe features tender meatballs smothered in a savory onion-infused sauce, topped with gooey melted cheese. With minimal prep time, you can effortlessly create a satisfying meal that’s great for game days, family gatherings, or cozy nights at home. Whether served over rice, pasta, or as hearty appetizers, these meatballs are sure to impress everyone at your table.

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Ingredients

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• 2 medium yellow onions (sliced)
• 26 ounces frozen meatballs
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 ounce brown gravy mix
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon white apple vinegar
• ¼ cup water
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1½ cups grated gruyere cheese

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Instructions

1. Place sliced onions at the bottom of a 6-quart crock pot. Add frozen meatballs on top.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together beef broth, gravy mix, garlic, black pepper, thyme, and vinegar until combined. Pour over the meatballs.
3. Cover and cook on high for 2½–3½ hours or low for 5–6 hours.
4. In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch and water together. Pour over meatballs and stir gently until mixed. Sprinkle grated cheese on top and cook for an additional ten minutes until melted.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2½–6 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 meatball with sauce (approximately 100g)
• Calories: 245
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 40mg